Iraq War

Yesterday's alleged American incursion into Syria brought the war in Iraq back into the headlines briefly this morning — although that issue has receded even further from campaign consciousness as economic fears take over. The absence of news from Iraq has allowed John McCain to pretend that his insistence on maintaining the American occupation until "victory" is still relevant. You'd have to be paying close attention to what has actually been happening to understand just how far from reality the Republican nominee has drifted, while negotiations with Baghdad over the status of American forces turn into a farcical stalemate.

For nearly two decades, Colin Powell has been one of the most respected public figures in the United States, a man who very well could have claimed the presidency in 1996 had he wanted it, and whose dramatic (even if it really wasn’t a surprise) endorsement of Barack Obama yesterday just might put this year’s Democratic nominee over the top.

The roots of Powell’s popularity—his inspiring personal story and his highly visible leadership during the 1991 Gulf War—are understandable, but its endurance is somewhat puzzling. This is the same guy who allowed the Bush administration to harness his sterling reputation to sell the Iraq war to the American public.  read more »

If you missed the barrage of Bastille Day celebrations over the weekend, fear not because there will be ample opportunity for Francophiles and foodies alike to mark the beginning of the end of the ancien regime tonight at the hundreds of brasseries and bistros in the city.

Zagat has a list of some of tonight's culinary-themed festivities, including a DJ, specialty cocktails, and complimentary amuse-bouches at the bar of Alain Ducasse's new bistro Benoit; and the week-long pre-fix menu featuring escargot, duck confit, and crème brûlée at West Village Eatery Le Gigot.

We can't help but remember a time when Bastille Day was less than trés chic.  read more »